Maribyrnong mayor returns to class at VU to inspire asylum seeker, migrant and refugee students

The history-making Mayor of Maribyrnong, Councillor Mohamed Semra – a VU business student who has deferred his studies – will make a brief return to the classroom to share his leadership journey with VU’s Western Melbourne English Program (WMEP) students at the Sunshine Campus on Thursday, July 30.

At just 27, Cr Semra is one of Melbourne’s most recognisable young leaders and social justice advocates. The 2025 Young Victorian of the Year made national headlines when he became Australia’s first mayor from sub-Saharan Africa in 2025.

His journey from refugee to mayor, combined with his advocacy for inclusion and public stands against racism, have inspired a group of WMEP students – most of whom are asylum seekers.

This week, dozens of young English as an Additional Language (EAL) students, who are from countries including Afghanistan, Eritrea, Myanmar and Vietnam, will hear his story firsthand and have the chance to ask their burning questions. 

EAL teacher Pooja Prasad said many of her students were deeply moved by the mayor’s determination, resilience and achievements, with his story inspiring them to think differently about their own futures.

“The Mayor's journey resonated strongly with my students because it showed them that leadership is achievable for people from all backgrounds,” she said.

“For young migrants, this message is particularly powerful as they begin to build their futures in Australia. He’s young, he’s a refugee, he’s someone they can relate to, and he’s shown them the importance of never giving up.”

She said the visit reinforced the university’s commitment to developing the next generation of leaders from diverse backgrounds, and opening doors to opportunity. 

The WMEP hosts more than 1000 students from diverse backgrounds as they study English or embark on a range of vocational training at the Footscray Nicholson, St Albans, Sunshine and Werribee campuses of VU TAFE. 

Cr Semra, whose mother studied EAL at VU, said he was honoured the students drew inspiration and connected to his story, and could not wait to meet with them.

“Every step in my journey has led me to my position on Council, and I have always tried to do everything I can to make our diverse, vibrant community the brightest and safest it can be. If I’m an example for anything, it’s that passion for what’s right and for community is all you need to make the world around you a better place. “Serving as Mayor – and serving on Council – has given me a greater platform to do that, and I invite everyone to believe in themselves and their abilities, to help achieve their goals for them, and their communities.”